Heaven Gained Another Angel – Phyllis’ Father, Angel Beenn

First losing her brother, then a sinus infection, now the loss of her father… Phyllis has had a very difficult month and needs our support right now. She has been there for us personally and professionally, and it’s time we show up for her. Her father Angel was a funny, kind and generous person, just like his daughter. He was always clowning around and cracking people up, the life of the party.

Phyllis’ father Angel Beenn was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico on January 9, 1934, one of 6 children of Fela and Angel Beenn. He was a lively, gregarious son who won many salsa dancing competitions in his youth. He came to the mainland, settling in Chicago back in 1951. At a dance, he met the love of his life, Rose Barrera, who thought he was loving. The two of them were married for 67 years, which he jokingly called the “Longest Fight of His Life.”

He worked for CTA for 22 years on the #62 Archer Avenue bus, even learning to speak some Polish to communicate with his riders. He retired as a line instructor after receiving numerous accolades and recognition from his superiors, co-workers and clientele.

A devoted father and husband, Angel had 4 children that they raised in the McKinley Park neighborhood --- Michael (Mickey) who just passed away last month; Gloria who they lost in 2007, Joseph and his baby girl Phyllis. He is survived by his wife, two children and ten grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Family gatherings at Phyllis’ house are going to be a little more quiet, without all the “belly laughs” that Angel created with his antics. A family funeral is being held on Monday, April 24, 2023, where it is expected the room will be filled with tears of sadness, reminiscing with stories about the great amount of love and laughter that he provided to those who held him close.